20000224

CE announces Rs 6 bn for poverty alleviation in B'stan LAILA A ALI

ZHOB: The Chief Executive, General Pervez Musharraf, has said that Balochistan would be provided with Rs 6 billion up to December 2001 under poverty alleviation programme. Out of this Rs one billion would be given during next month, while Rs two billion would be provided up to December this year. The remaining Rs 3 billion would be provided up to December, 2001.

He was addressing tribal elders, zamindars and elite of the area in Zhob on Wednesday.

He said he realised that Balochistan was ignored and deprived in the past. Therefore, he said, "it is my promise with you that Balochistan will not only get its due share but more than its share."

He said the province is rich in mineral resources but these have still to be exploited for the benefit of the people. He said offshore oil exploration in Gawadar area "is in progress" and, "if God willing", the oil was found, Balochistan would progress very rapidly.

He said gas pipelines from Turkmenistan and Iran would be brought to Pakistan. With the completion of these projects "our dependence on electricity as energy source will greatly decrease."

He said efforts were also being made to explore new gas fields in Balochistan.

Referring to the conditions of roads in Balochistan, the Chief Executive said he has asked NHA to give priority to the roads passing through Balochistan.

Wapda has also been directed to meet the power requirements of the province.

He asked the people to pay taxes and other government dues so that the resources were available for carrying out development work.

Referring to his seven-point agenda, he said that restoration of economy and recovery of looted wealth of the nation were receiving the utmost attention of his government.

The Chief Executive, on request of Balochistan Governor Amir-ul-Mulk Mengal announced immediate special grant of Rs five million for the relief operations in the drought-stricken area of District Khuzdar.

Those who were present on the occasion include governor of Balochistan Amir-ul-Mulk Mengal, Corp Commander Balochistan Lt. General Mushtaq Hussain, provincial minister, Brigadier Khadim Hussain (Retd), elite of the city and tribal elders.

The Chief Executive, referring to law and order situation, said the murder of Justice Nawaz Marri was most unfortunate incident. He said he has directed the provincial government to bring the culprits to book for exemplary punishment. He called for adherence to law by the general public so that Pakistan could be regarded a civilized country of the world.